We must learn from past mistakes and get better

Simply put, history repeats itself when leaders don’t learn from their previous mistakes or the mistakes of others. Mistakes are actions that don’t produce positive results. And unfortunately, it appears that the Jasper County School District is headed down the same path which previously left negative economic growth for too many years.

In my opinion, the unprofessional micromanagement of JCSD board meetings which contributes to dysfunction is similar to those conditions at Allendale School District before the state department of education’s takeover a few years ago. Therefore, what all of our Jasper County children need is a win-win plan of action.

In 1970, the Argent Lumber Mill was closed for good. It employed more than 400 workers from all around Jasper and surrounding counties. The loss of employment was difficult for the poor with no transportation. Shortly thereafter, in the mid-1970’s, the Jasper County Board of Education closed the old Hardeeville School because it was condemned by the state department of education. There was no money to build a new school; therefore, Hardeeville High students were bused to Jasper County High School in Ridgeland.

The result was of course little to no growth for the town of Hardeeville. Moving families are looking for communities that have schools for all ages-Pre-K to 12th Grade and employment opportunities.

During this time, industrial development was almost at a standstill. Hardeeville didn’t have a high school or a complete middle school until the new school was built about five years ago. Most moving families with children are looking for communities that have schools for Pre-K to 12th Grade in the community as well as varied employment opportunities.

My point is this: For Hardeeville and Ridgeland to grow, previous history has proven that both cities need Pre-K to 12th grade in each community. There are enough students to fill public schools in both communities. The problem is with the executive leadership of Jasper County District Schools. Their priority should be to meet the needs of all students, not just academically-advanced students. Putting all of our eggs (taxpayers’ money) in one basket (consolidate schools to expand the academically advanced program) is not a prudent decision.

Yes, the advanced students need an appropriate curriculum, but so do the non-college students. With a pre-vocational curriculum (none yet in JCPS) for grades 6-8, students would be more motivated to stay in school and receive hands-on training in the vocation of their choice. ACE is shared between several counties and private schools so more vocational opportunities are needed for grades 9-12 where students actually work on site. To motivate and meet the needs of students in vocational programs, all academics are directly related to preparation for and hands-on employment skills. With the continued expansion of resorts and housing for the influx of retirees, there is a growing need for trained service providers such as cleaning/laundry staff, gardeners/horticulture technicians, beauticians and barbers, medical assistants, pet care workers, computer/office, mechanics, plumbers, electricians, teaching assistants, store clerks, restaurant/hotel staff, and more.

Instead of wasting thousands of dollars on consolidation consultants and the increase in busing costs, why not have one community school campus offering advanced courses, and the other campus offering pre-vocational and vocational training. Students are more likely to return to/stay in school when it’s a win-win plan for everyone!